In the diverse tapestry of Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) classes and races, the combination of Undead and Druid might initially seem like an oxymoron. After all, druids are typically associated with life, nature, and the seasons, while undead are the antithesis of life. However, with a little creativity and a deep understanding of the rules, an undead druid can be a fascinating addition to any D&D party.
The concept of an undead druid is not without precedent. Some official D&D sources, like Mordenkainen's Tome of Foes, and third-party publishers have explored this unique concept. An undead druid can be a skeleton, zombie, or even a wight who has found connection with nature and is driven by a desire to protect it, rather than destruction and conquest.
Undead Druid Backgrounds
Creating a compelling undead druid begins with choosing the right background. A 'Genie' or 'Hexxie' linage from The Book of Exalted Deeds can provide an intriguing backstory. Alternatively, customizing a 'Haunted One' background from Van Richten's Guide to Ravenloft can also yield excellent results.
Regardless of the background chosen, the undead druid's connection to nature should be a central part of their backstory. Perhaps they were once a druid who made a pact with a nature deity to become undead to protect a sacred grove, or maybe they are an undead creature who has found a connection to nature after death.
Race and Ability Scores
For undead druids, race choice is crucial. Skeletons and wights typically have limited ability score modifiers, so rely on a good ability score generation method. Considering modifiers from racial traits, feats, and magical items can help compensate for these limitations.
Half-lings or warforged can make interesting undead druids, as they have proficiency in survival and can choose skills relevant to druids. Their ability scores can also be more easily manipulated for optimization.
Maximizing Druid Mechanics
Undead druids can utilize the druid's spellcasting feature and wild shape ability. To maximize spellcasting, focus on Intelligence as the spellcasting ability. For wild shape, remember that undead creatures don't sleep, so they can use this ability for longer periods.
Proficiency in light and medium armor, and shields, along with the usual druid skills, makes an undead druid surprisingly robust in combat. Plus, they can always fall back on undead traits like bonus actions to attack with a natural weapon or resistance to bludgeoning damage.
Undead Druid Subclasses
Undead druids can excel in several subclasses. The Circle of Spores deliver synergies with undead traits, like dealing necrotic damage and benefiting from it. Moon druids can use wild shape to assume beast forms that are stronger or more resistant than their base form.
The Circle of the Land is also an excellent choice. It offers a bonus to Intelligence and spells tied to terrains, which can be very useful for undead druids exploring dungeons and ruins.
Undead Druid Archetypes
Undead druids can take some interesting archetypes. The Archfey patron can turn undead into natural creatures, fitting well with the druid's theme. The Circle of the Moon's option to gain resistance to bludgeoning damage further reinforces undead immunities.
The Circle of the Shepherd can also be an interesting choice, with its ability to command the dead. While undead druids aren't typically thought of as being able to command the living, this could translate to gaining temporary control over undead creatures.
In the vast world of D&D, an undead druid is more than just a novelty. With creative thinking and resourceful play, they can be powerful allies, brought to life in the realm of imagination.